Rail Passes

Rail passes give you extensive rail travel within one country, or, depending on the pass, between multiple countries. They also allow you to make last minute travel plans as well as save money, offering travel discounts, benefits and bonuses. Eurail Global Pass is the most complete rail pass to (...)

Eurail Global Pass is the most complete rail pass to discover all of Europe by train.

How does it work?

Rail Passes in 3 steps

1. Pick the right rail pass

Rail passes are available in 1, 2, 3 or 4 country combinations for extensive travel on the national rail networks. Going for an extended trip? Try the Eurail Global Pass offering rail travel in 28 different countries. Once you've selected your pass, its price will depend on the class of service, First or Second, selected and the number of rail travel days.

2. Reserve your seats

Travelling on local and regional trains allows you to explore at will. Simply board with your rail pass and choose any open seat. Reservations are required on most high speed, overnight, scenic, and international trains. We recommend always checking your desired journey for any specific seat reservation requirements.

3. Activate and travel

Your rail pass requires that you activate it by getting it stamped at the ticket window at the departure station on the day of your first train journey. Once activated, you are all set and ready to explore.

Your options

What kind of passes are there?

Enjoy extensive train travel across the national rail network of one country, with the freedom to explore its numerous cities and towns.

MULTI-COUNTRY PASSES

Travel across the national rail networks of neighboring countries with a single rail pass. It’s a perfect way to explore Europe’s rich diversity.

SWISS TRAVEL SYSTEM

Extensive travel on trains, buses and boats, plus free entry to over 490 museums. There isn't a better or more budget-friendly way to discover Switzerland.

Rail pass finder

Know where you want to go? Type in the names of the countries you'd like to visit and we'll find the best pass.

Comparison

Rail Passes vs. Train Tickets

Rail passes

Train Tickets

Best for discovering more than 3 cities

Children usually travel free

Often includes travel bonuses

Seat reservations included for most trains

Our customers storiesWhat can you do with a rail pass?

Swiss Half Fare | . | "What I like about this card is that I get to enjoy great discount for entrance tickets to attractions (e.g. the Matterhorn). Also it is easy to use and the trains (...)
"

Rail is the best in Europe | . | "Comfortable, clean, prompt, accessible and supportive are the words we can use for this mode of travel. First class global pass place you in different level of (...)
"

Virgin trains | . | "WE travelled Kings cross to Edinburgh and Edinburgh to Wolverha,pton. Both trains on time and vey clean and comfortable.
"

FAQs

Common Questions

Find answers now by viewing our Frequently Asked Questions. .

Q. Why visit Europe by train?

Why visit Europe by train?

First of all for the simple fact that trains represents the most hassle-free choice to reach your destination.

Then for the fact that trains go everywhere in Europe, from small villages to major cities. They are safe, modern and very comfortable.

The rail network in Europe is one of the most extensive in the world. The implication of important national railway companies like the SNCF, DB, SBB, RENFE, TRENITALIA etc. means that western European countries are leading the race to offer the most convenient way to travel from city centre to city centre.

Q. What is a rail pass?

What is a rail pass?

Rail passes are widely used by travellers looking to experience as much as they can when visiting Europe. By knowing the advantages of a rail pass you will also understand how it works.

One or more countries: You can choose to buy a rail pass covering one country, two neighbouring countries or multiple countries. You can even visit 28 countries with the Eurail Global Pass!

Unlimited travel: Take 1 train or 5 trains a day or travel 50km or 400km. With a rail pass, you can travel as much as you want.

Flexibility: Travel whenever you want, wherever you want. No need to plan ahead! A rail pass offers unmatched freedom to make multiple journeys.

Seat reservation at a nominal price: A rail pass offers a special passholder fare to travel on board all trains which require a seat reservation. This means that you will only pay a small fee to travel on board premium trains like the TGV, Eurostar, Thalys, TGV Lyria and more.

Q. Rail pass activation

Rail pass activation

Rail passes must be activated within 11 months of the issuing date at a railway station in Europe.

Make sure to bring along your travel documents as a railway official will fill in your passport number before stamping your rail pass to validate it.

Before boarding it is mandatory to write down the date of travel on your rail pass as well as recording your trip in the Travel Report on the rail pass cover.

Q. Train ticket vs Rail pass

Train ticket vs Rail pass

A train ticket is cheaper if you book in advance and plan on doing only 2 or 3 trips.

A rail pass is better if you want the freedom to travel extensively in one or more countries.

Finding out what is the best product for you, will save you money and time.

E.g. For a rail pass with a validity of 3 days continuous. By activating your rail pass on the 1st of the month, you can use it until the 3rd.

Q. What is a seat reservation?

What is a seat reservation?

A seat reservation is a guaranteed seat on-board a train. Seat reservations are compulsory for most high speed, international, and night trains. However, as you will be travelling with a rail pass, you will only have to pay for a small reservation fee, as opposed to the usual standard fare.

Advance seat reservation is a great way to avoid wasting time and most importantly be in the unpleasant situation where no seats are available once in Europe.

All rail passes

One country pass

2 countries select pass

Multiple countries select pass​

Let Rail Europe deliver tips, deals, and offers to your inbox

The information is required by Rail Europe to process your subscription to Rail Europe newsletter. In accordance with the French data protection act (Act n° 78-17 of 6 January 1978), you have the right to oppose, access, change, correct and delete the information held about you. To exercise this right, please click here.